Which Ford Explorer is best for towing?
When it comes to selecting the Ford Explorer that's best for towing, there are a few key factors to consider. The Ford Explorer lineup offers a range of towing capacities, so it's important to choose the right model that can handle your specific towing needs.
Towing Capacity Breakdown
The towing capacity of the Ford Explorer varies depending on the specific model and engine configuration. The maximum towing capacity ranges from 5,000 lbs to 5,600 lbs, depending on the trim level and options selected. Here's a breakdown of the towing capacities for the different Ford Explorer models:
- Ford Explorer Base, XLT, and Limited trims: Up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity
- Ford Explorer ST and Platinum trims: Up to 5,600 lbs towing capacity
- Ford Explorer Hybrid: Up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity
It's important to note that the towing capacity can also be affected by factors such as the weight of passengers, cargo, and any additional equipment or accessories added to the vehicle.
Choosing the Right Model
To determine the best Ford Explorer for your towing needs, consider the following factors:
- Towing Capacity: Evaluate the maximum towing capacity of each Explorer model to ensure it can handle the weight of your trailer, boat, or other towed item.
- Engine Performance: The more powerful engines, such as the turbocharged V6 in the ST and Platinum trims, will provide better towing performance.
- Towing Package: Look for Explorer models that come equipped with a towing package, which includes features like a trailer hitch, wiring harness, and upgraded cooling system.
- Passenger and Cargo Needs: Consider how many passengers you'll need to transport and the amount of cargo you'll be carrying, as these factors can impact the overall towing capacity.
By carefully considering these factors, you can select the Ford Explorer that best meets your towing requirements and ensures a safe and reliable towing experience.
Which Ford Explorer has a tow package?
As we mentioned above, every 2025 Explorer comes with the standard Class III Trailer Tow Package. With this package, the 2025 Ford Explorer towing capacity is 5,000 pounds maximum, regardless of the engine.
What is the best towing Ford Explorer?
What is the best Ford Explorer year for towing? The Ford Explorer SUV's 2024 model can be seen as the best year for towing, as it's the most modern Explorer with a towing capacity above 5,000 pounds,1 specifically reaching up to 5,600 pounds when configured with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6.
Is Explorer Limited or XLT better?
The main differences are that the Ford Explorer Limited is a more luxurious trim than the XLT, offering standard leather seats, heated and ventilated front seats, and more premium technology and safety features like a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system, voice-activated navigation, and a 360-degree camera. The XLT comes with cloth seats and standard first-row heated seats, and while it shares some safety features, the Limited adds more advanced ones.
You can watch this video to learn about the features of the XLT and Limited trims of the 2022 Ford Explorer: 1mBuild Your OwnYouTube · Jan 15, 2022
Ford Explorer XLT vs. Limited
| Feature | Ford Explorer XLT | Ford Explorer Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Seating | Standard cloth or optional ActiveX | Standard leather-trimmed |
| Front Seats | Standard first-row heated seats | Heated and ventilated front seats with driver memory |
| Second-Row Seats | Heated second-row seats are optional | Standard heated second-row seats |
| Technology | Standard 8-inch touchscreen, smart device app connections, and tri-zone auto climate control | Adds voice-activated navigation, 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, wireless charging pad, and hands-free power liftgate |
| Safety | Includes lane keeping, frontal collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, and rear cross-traffic sensing | Adds evasive steering assist, a 360-degree camera with split-view display, and adaptive cruise control |
| Exterior | Standard 18-inch wheels | Adds 20-inch premium aluminum wheels, LED fog lamps, and power-folding heated side mirrors with security approach lamps |
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Which one to choose?
- Choose the XLT if you want a capable and well-equipped SUV that is more budget-friendly, and you don't need the premium features of the Limited.
- Choose the Limited if you are looking for a more luxurious experience with enhanced comfort features like leather seats and ventilated front seats, plus more advanced technology and safety systems.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid
- 2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
- 2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
- 2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.
Other years with potential issues
- 2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
- Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.
